Profile
Maiko Nagao
In one or two sentences introduce yourself…….
I’m full Japanese and have had the pleasure of growing up in the happiest voted country in the world, Vanuatu at the age of 5 with my family. I came to Aotearoa, New Zealand with my family after Vanuatu and have since then had all my schooling here. I am currently a graphic designer and absolutely loving it!!
What’s your biggest project going on now?
http://www.weddinginvitationz.co.nz – My inspiration to start this business was when I was researching to design my friend’s wedding invitation and found that there was a huge lack of cute and funky designs that were also affordable available in New Zealand.
What do you spend your days doing?
Right now I’m crazy about illustration!! I just can’t seem to get off my mac coming up with new cutesy designs!! Apart from that, I’m right into photography (with my new SLR camera). My boyfriend and I have a new craze where we mission it to our favourite beaches/bush walks to have a photo competition. Best photo of the day gets placed on my facebook page!!
Where’s your favourite place in NZ?
My all time favourite place in NZ has to be a toss between Te Arai Point and Lake Okareka. I also love Mt Ruapehu on a bluebird day.
What’s your favourite tipple?
My dad’s home made Japanese plum wine sweetened with New Zealand Manuka honey. Mmmmm!
Who inspired/or continues to inspire you most in your life?
My mum – she inspires me to do what I love, as she does.
What’s the latest thing downloaded to your Ipod?
I’ve never downloaded anything onto my ipod – is this strange?
What’s your biggest weakness?
Good food.
If you weren’t doing what you are doing now you’d…
be on my waterfront land in Vanuatu I bought 2 years ago. I would’ve built a little hut and be living off fish from the sea, taro and coconut juice.
What are you reading?
I’m reading a Japanese book about a zoo keeper and his elephant during World War II.
It takes me a lot longer to get through Japanese books but it helps me keep up my kanji knowledge!!
What is your idea of perfect happiness?
My ultimate perfect happiness is for every one I love to be healthy and happy.
What is your greatest fear?
Losing my family and people I love.
What is your greatest extravagance?
Travelling! I need to do more of it…
If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?
Take more time to breathe, stretch and exercise. I am fully getting addicted to belly dancing at the moment!!
Finish these sentences:
It really irritates me that
baby showers make me clucky when I know I’m not ready for a baby…
I just love it when….
My beautiful friends are pregnant and absolutely glowing!!
Thanks Maiko, we have named a garment from Summer 08 in honour of you! The Maiko Drapery Wrap Dress is available in store mid October.